Endurance GB sets out commitment to welfare

Endurance GB, the National Governing Body for the sport of Endurance Riding, has set out its agenda for 2018 which defines its commitment to the positive promotion of the sport, in particular ensuring horse welfare.

Under the new elected Chair of Endurance GB, Nicki Thorne, the organisation has detailed its plans to lead from the front to change attitudes in regard to welfare. Endurance GB is introducing a number of initiatives to address these changes proactively, and has called on the FEI for dialogue on this vision and values which has been received positively.

Included in the strategy is Endurance GB’s plans to continue developing initiatives such as the Leading Rider Award and the Best Condition Award with ride organisers. This includes HPG Endurance Ltd, organisers of the Euston Park rides where HPG Endurance Ltd and Endurance GB are working closely together to implement a number of additional measures in 2018 including increased on course veterinary presence and other innovations agreed with the FEI.

Central to implementing change within the sport is to ensure that Endurance GB members uphold its values on horse welfare, which has led to the development of ‘British values for British riders’ which will provide a foundation of agreement between British riders abroad and Endurance GB, to ensure standards and welfare meet requirements at all times.

Endurance GB will also continue to conduct regular research with its own national database to further their training and development plans, which will be furthered with the recent appointment of Dr David Marlin, a Scientific and Equine Consultant.

Nicki Thorne, Chair of Endurance GB, said: “Welfare is at the heart of our sport and a fundamental pillar for all of our activities. Safeguarding the future of Endurance in this country is pivotal for all of us and we hold horse welfare in the highest regard. We are justly proud of our excellent welfare record within the UK and we wish to reiterate Endurance GB’s firm commitment as a leader in welfare practices, with research, innovation and development driven from the UK.”

New for 2018, Endurance GB will be hosting a series of Horse Welfare seminars, kicking off in February 2018 with a talk on Welfare of the Competing Horse from Roly Owers, CEO of World Horse Welfare, and a presentation from Prof. Tim Parkin from Glasgow University. For more information visit endurancegb.co.uk.